Abu Dhabi focuses on innovation and talent development in technology meeting

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi, presided over a significant meeting of the Advanced Technology Research Council at the Abu Dhabi Executive Office. The council convened to address critical advancements in the development of national talents, research and development achievements, and the potential for launching new commercial projects, as well as international collaboration opportunities planned for 2025.

The discussions centred on enhancing national competencies in science and technology. His Highness underscored the importance of nurturing talents in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), directing the council to initiate quality projects and initiatives that bolster Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global research and development hub while fast-tracking the integration of advanced technologies across vital sectors.

In an encouraging note, the council noted a 20% increase in research and development personnel in 2024, comprising a group of distinguished scientists and researchers, alongside a 9% rise in Emirati researchers, which has reached a total of 210 individuals contributing to the global scientific research domain. This growth highlights the council’s dedication to fostering an environment conducive to the aspirations of both Emirati and global talents.

Over the past year, the Advanced Technology Research Council has expanded its international footprint by establishing strategic partnerships through 28 international research projects with a network of global universities. Additionally, it has engaged with nine local organisations and entered into cooperative agreements with countries, including Spain, Serbia, and Uzbekistan, to broaden the scope of joint research and knowledge exchange.

The “UAE Research Map,” a central platform designed to provide valuable insights and resources to researchers, continues to grow, attracting experts and research centres while offering funding avenues that reinforce the country’s innovation ecosystem. The programme has seen a substantial increase in the number of registered researchers and participating entities.

In its efforts to empower young talents, the council’s initiative aimed at developing skills of youth in STEM has successfully engaged over 3,000 individuals and launched seven new projects intended to inspire the younger generation to explore careers in science and technology.

The Technology Innovation Institute, which is an applied research arm of the council, has also reported significant progress over the last year, developing and implementing advanced prototypes in real-world operational settings, surpassing expectations. Among these projects are innovations in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and autonomous systems for land, air, and sea, all of which received positive reception from various sectors, establishing the council as a strategic partner for industry and government initiatives.

Moreover, the council concluded three major events through its program management arm, “Aspire,” which included the “Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League,” the “Mohammed bin Zayed Global Robotics Challenge,” and the “XPRIZE Feed the Next Billion competition,” marking a successful engagement with the community in innovative pursuits.

Business development efforts have flourished with the signing of 32 new agreements, encompassing proofs of concept, project collaborations, and strategic frameworks, indicative of ongoing progress in the innovation sector. The council also introduced three new companies under its commercial marketing arm, “Venture One.” These include “STEER AI,” focused on safe and smart autonomous mobility; “Quantum Gate,” aimed at strengthening digital asset protection in the post-quantum era; and “Nabat,” which seeks to utilise advanced technologies for environmental restoration. Furthermore, support for the continued growth of “AI71,” a company specialising in artificial intelligence solutions for enterprises, remains a priority.

The meeting was attended by key figures including Dr. Ahmed Mubarak bin Nawea Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Office of the President for Strategic Affairs; Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority; and various representatives from the Abu Dhabi government and the Advanced Technology Research Council.

Source: Noah Wire Services